Folly Beach Pier
Folly Beach Pier is South Carolina's surfing epicenter—the most recognized wave in a state that flies under the East Coast radar but delivers quality surf when conditions align. The pier creates sandbars that focus whatever swell arrives, from late-summer hurricane energy to winter cold fronts pushing down from the northeast. Charleston's proximity brings a unique surf culture that blends Southern hospitality with competitive lineups when it's firing. For anyone exploring East Coast surfing beyond the Florida-to-North-Carolina corridor, Folly Beach Pier proves South Carolina deserves its spot on the map.
Folly Beach Pier surf forecast
Model forecast for swell, wind and tide.
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Spot Details
CustomizeCustomize this spotSwell Requirements
- Optimal direction
- SE (130°)
- Direction range
- 90° - 170°
- Size range
- 0.6m - 2.5m
- Ideal size
- 1.5m - 2m
- Height multiplier
- 1.00×
- Ideal period
- 12s+
Wind Requirements
- Optimal direction
- NW (315°)
- Offshore range
- 280° - 350°
Tide Requirements
- Optimal tide
- mid
- Optimal range
- 0.4m - 1.5m
Water temp
21°C
Wetsuit
Springsuit / 2mm
Difficulty
4/10
Crowd level
7/10
Access: Public beach. Parking can be limited.
Frequently Asked Questions
What tide is best at Folly Beach Pier?
The Folly Beach Pier profile favors mid tide, ideally between 0.4m and 1.5m on the local tide chart. Compare this preference with the forecast tide and local conditions before choosing a session.
What wind direction is offshore at Folly Beach Pier?
The Folly Beach Pier profile uses wind from NW (315°) as its preferred direction, with an offshore range of 280° to 350°. Wind speed matters too: light winds outside that range can still produce surfable conditions, while strong offshore winds can make takeoffs difficult.
What swell size and direction work best at Folly Beach Pier?
The Folly Beach Pier scoring profile favors swell from SE (90° to 170°), a swell-height range of 0.6m to 2.5m, and a reference period of 12s. These are model inputs, not guaranteed breaking-wave heights or a promise that the surf will suit every ability.
When is the best time of year to surf Folly Beach Pier?
The main season at Folly Beach Pier is Sep, Oct, Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb, Mar. A secondary window runs Aug. Hurricane swells and cold fronts.
How do I get to Folly Beach Pier?
The spot profile lists CHS as a nearby airport. The estimated road transfer is 30 minutes. Public beach. Parking can be limited.
What kind of wave is Folly Beach Pier?
Folly Beach Pier is a beach break, a peak with lefts and rights. Difficulty is rated 4/10.
Best Season
Peak: Sep, Oct, Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb, Mar
Secondary: Aug
Hurricane swells and cold fronts.